International Youth Foundation and Burberry's Impactful Nasdaq Bell Ceremony on Youth Day

Celebrating the Power of Youth at Nasdaq

On August 15, 2025, a significant event took place at the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square, where the International Youth Foundation (IYF) and The Burberry Foundation joined forces to ring the Closing Bell in honor of International Youth Day. This celebration was more than just a ceremony; it highlighted the pivotal role of youth leadership and global cooperation in fostering a better future.

The ringing of the bell marked a commemoration of youth across the globe, aligning perfectly with IYF’s mission of connecting young individuals from diverse backgrounds to economic and educational opportunities. For 35 years, IYF has been at the forefront of transforming lives in more than 100 countries, working alongside over 615 local partners to ensure young people have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed.

A Shared Commitment to Empowerment

Present at this lively event was Christina Sass, the President and CEO of IYF, along with leaders from The Burberry Foundation and various youth development organizations including New York Edge and Girls Inc. of New York City. The entire ceremony was livestreamed, encapsulating a unity in purpose and vision—a belief in the limitless potential of young people.

Christina Sass expressed her pride in being able to stand alongside The Burberry Foundation, amplifying the message of what can be achieved when youth creativity is nurtured. She stated, "This is more than a moment—it's a movement to ensure every young person has a chance to shape their future." This statement encapsulated the essence of what International Youth Day signifies—recognizing and supporting youth as catalysts for innovation and change.

During the event, Sass emphasized how IYF’s programs, especially the Burberry Inspire initiative, have empowered hundreds of thousands of youths by unlocking their creativity and providing them with essential skills to navigate through life’s challenges. To date, the Burberry Inspire program alone has reached over 414,822 young people across six countries.

Burberry Inspire: A Catalyst for Change

The Burberry Inspire program, co-developed by IYF and The Burberry Foundation, focuses on art, STEM, and leadership. It provides a platform for youth aged 10-24 to explore their identities, build critical life skills, and gain the confidence needed to lead with purpose. This initiative is not limited to the U.S.; it extends to the UK, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong S.A.R, demonstrating a truly global commitment towards youth empowerment.

As Alexandra McCauley, Chief People Officer at Burberry, stated, “Through Burberry Inspire, we are helping young people realize their potential by discovering their creative voice and building skills that last a lifetime.” This focus on creativity and community support serves as a reminder to young individuals that they can pursue their aspirations and shape a brighter future.

The program even incorporates mentorship and volunteer opportunities, inviting Burberry employees to engage with the youth, thus fostering a community spirit and reinforcing the importance of giving back.

An Ongoing Impact

IYF's celebration at Nasdaq not only serves as a recognition of what has been achieved but also highlights the need for continued efforts to address economic inequality and encourage youth participation in societal growth. As of now, IYF has impacted over 8.1 million young people directly and inspired an additional 6.3 million through digital platforms. This extensive reach exemplifies IYF’s commitment to inclusive solutions with young people at the forefront of change.

With the 35th anniversary of IYF marking significant milestones, events like the Nasdaq Closing Bell ceremony provide a global platform to reaffirm their commitment to youth and the integral role they play in shaping the world’s future. The celebration of International Youth Day was not merely about the present but a promise for tomorrow, aspiring for every young individual to have the opportunity and agency to lead and innovate their lives.

For those who missed it, the Nasdaq bell ringing can still be viewed online, serving as a testament to the collaborative efforts of organizations that believe in youth empowerment and collective action towards a better tomorrow.